T4C program's goal: 'To get people in the community off drugs'

The "Thinking For a Change" program implemented by the Guernsey County Common Pleas Court through its Adult Probation Department is another tool in the local war on drugs and non-violent crimes that are often driven by drug addiction.

Thinking For a Change, or T4C for short, is an evidence based, cognitive behavioral treatment program developed by addressing three key areas -- cognitive self-change, social skills and problem solving skills.

"The court is required, for non-violent felons of the fourth- and fifth-degrees, to punish, sanction and rehabilitate in the community," said Judge David A. Ellwood of the requirements imposed on local courts as a result of Ohio House Bill 86 that was passed in September 2011. "Many of these felons are convicted of possession of drugs, drug abuse, etc.

"We are attempting to get people in the community off drugs," added Ellwood.

House Bill 86 requires courts to place an emphasis on punishing and rehabilitating non-violent fourth- and fifth-degree felony offenders within the local community instead of sentencing them to prison.

The program is administered through the court's Drug Court. Currently, 24 individuals are participating in the Drug Court.

The T4C group is facilitated by Intensive Supervised Probation and Drug Court Director Andrea May with the assistance of ISP Officer Zandrea Wolfe.

"It was a four-day training to be certified to facilitate the course," said May. "It is sanctioned by the National Institute of Corrections and was provided by Eastern Ohio Corrections Center."

The T4C group meeting twice weekly for two hours per session at the Ohio Valley Educational Service Center in Cambridge.

"The meeting space and technology the OVESC has made available to the probation department has made it possible for the program to be implemented," said May. "Community partnerships are an invaluable resource and necessary tool in meeting the demands of effectively administering community control sanctions, including the objective of rehabilitating offenders within our community."

May is currently soliciting donations from area organizations, businesses and individuals to enhance the department's limited incentive program.

It is imperative that program participants see the rewards of engaging in pro-social behaviors and realize that positive strides and efforts made to change their lifestyle are valued.

"The dollar amount of individual donations, certificates or gift cards does not have to be large to be effective," said Wolfe. "A $10 gas card could mean the world to someone who has moved mountains to get from the outskirts of the county to 12-step meetings, counseling, community service or job interviews."

Contact Capt. Tim Oliver, May or Wolfe, 432-9255, to arrange a donation.

To date, the court has hosted four T4C sessions.SClBrstillion@daily-jeff.com